A tragic explosion at an illegal fireworks factory in Ercolano, near Naples, has claimed the lives of three young individuals on their first day of work.

The victims, two 26-year-old twin sisters and an 18-year-old student, were working in a warehouse that had been illegally operating since the previous weekend.

The explosion, which was heard across nearby towns, resulted from a large stockpile of fireworks stored in the building.

Emergency services, including firefighters and police, are still searching the debris for more victims and trying to identify the property owner.

The incident highlights ongoing issues of illegal labor practices and safety violations in the region, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of workplace safety laws.

Local officials and unions have expressed outrage, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent such tragedies.